The UK government has taken a significant step in its immigration policy by withdrawing special visa privileges for officials from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). This move comes after failed negotiations over the return of illegal migrants and foreign criminals.
Diplomatic Standoff Leads to Visa Sanctions
Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood announced the decision on December 28, 2025, following unsuccessful talks with the Congolese government. The UK had sought a formal agreement to streamline the process for returning individuals with no right to remain in Britain. The DRC, Africa's fourth most populous nation, was reportedly refusing to process necessary paperwork, even requiring individuals to sign their own deportation documents, which brought the returns system to a standstill.
This action fulfils a threat made by Mahmood just over a month prior. She had warned three African nations – the DRC, Angola, and Namibia – that they risked losing visa privileges if they did not cooperate more fully on returns. In a statement reminiscent of policies from the Trump era, she declared: ‘My message to foreign governments today is clear: accept the return of your citizens or lose the privilege of entering our country.’
Fast-Track Access Revoked for Congolese Officials
The immediate consequence is that VIPs, senior government figures, and other eligible individuals from the DRC can no longer access a dedicated, hassle-free visa route to the UK. They must now apply through the standard, often slower, visa application process like any other visitor. This represents a tangible diplomatic downgrade.
In contrast, the UK government confirmed that Angola and Namibia will retain their special visa arrangements. Officials stated that agreements have been reached with these two countries, ensuring a smoother returns process for their nationals who are in the UK illegally.
A Warning of Further Measures to Come
While stopping short of an outright visa ban for all Congolese citizens, Shabana Mahmood made it clear this remains a potential option. She emphasised that this is merely the opening salvo in a broader strategy. ‘This is just the start of the measures I am taking to secure our border and ramp up the removal of those with no right to be here,’ the Home Secretary stated.
She expressed gratitude for the cooperation from Angola and Namibia, while issuing a direct challenge to the DRC authorities: ‘Now is the time for the Democratic Republic of Congo to do the right thing. Take your citizens back or lose the privilege of entering our country.’
The Home Office noted there has been ‘some engagement’ from the DRC since the new visa restrictions were implemented, suggesting diplomatic channels remain open. However, the removal of the fast-track scheme stands as a concrete penalty, underscoring the UK's tougher stance on nations deemed uncooperative on migration issues.
